Colonel Arthur Evans:

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty why orders were given to turn a ship, of whose name he has been informed, round in dangerous waters which resulted in the loss of the ship; what disciplinary action has been taken against those responsible; and whether arrangements have been made to make certain that such mistakes cannot be made in future?

Mr. Alexander:

A full inquiry has been held, and steps have been taken to minimise the risk of recurrence. Fortunately this mishap did not result in the loss of the ship. Disciplinary action is under consideration.

Colonel Evans:

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the master of the ship concerned protested against carrying out this order when it was given by a superior naval authority, and is he satisfied that the naval authority concerned had the experience necessary to hold a position of that kind in this port?

Mr. Alexander:

The officers concerned were very experienced, and this particular accident would not have occurred if the instructions had been closely followed. Steps are being taken to prevent a recurrence.

Is it not true to say that many similar cases have been brought to the notice of the Admiralty by shipowners all over the country, and that no action has been taken?

Mr. Alexander:

No, that is not true.

Does not that indicate that the right hon. Gentleman is not fully cognisant of all that is going on in his Department?

Mr. Alexander:

I am afraid I cannot accept questions put in that way. It is not true that representations to the Admiralty lead to no action where such action is required to ensure that there is no departure from the carrying out of orders.

Is it made known to the Admiralty what is in these ships when they go down?

Mr. Alexander:

The cargoes?

Yes, what kind of cargoes?

Mr. Alexander:

Yes, that is known.